Brenda Gael Smith

About my artwork

I create textile paintings and sketches made from a rich palette of my hand-dyed fabrics complemented by extensive, textural stitching demonstrating the transformative power of stitch. Abstraction is a persistent and insistent force. Working improvisationally, I capture the essence of my subjects to impart a sense of wonder of the natural world and a strong affinity to place.

Daily walks are a creative habit integral to my studio practice whether I am home or travelling. By closely observing my surroundings, and taking hundreds of photos, I have a bountiful inspiration bank that informs my work. I also embrace the serendipity factor. From the dye pot, to the design wall, to the sewing machine, I am always open to the possibility of a glorious accident.

On Exhibition

• Art Quilt Australia 2021: at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum at Lilydale, Victoria from 7 August until 14 November 2021.
• Australia Wide Seven at Bunbury Museum & Heritage Centre Western Australia from 25 September – 7 November 2021.
• One Step Further at Kyabram Town Hall 1 October to 30 November 2021
• 2021 Quilts Unlimited: View Centre of the Arts & Culture, New York 2 October – 4 December 2021 (Juror Invitational)
• Quilts=Art=Quilts Schweinfurth Art Center, Auburn, NY 23 October 2021- 9 January 2022
• Fur Fangs Feathers & Fins premiere at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum 2 April to 17 June 2022 (SAQA Global Exhibition)